Last of the Nordic Gods

Lasse Viren's training and triumphs

Sisu is a Finnish word that has no direct English translation. Sisu refers to the quality in a person which drives him above and beyond the norm in any task for which stamina, willpower and determination are necessary.

The small country of Finland is wedged between the might of the Russian lands and the stoic calm of Norway and Sweden. The country’s population is less than that of New York City, but the spirit of the people is proud and composed. Idleness is frowned upon, and a life of high achievement is the expected norm. Sports have always played an instrumental role in the curricula of the Nordic folk; there is a belief that a solid foundation of exercise in youth builds one into a trusty and staid character for life.

Finland won a remarkable 24 Olympic gold medals in track and field between 1912 and 1936. Then the medal haul slowed to a trickle. In the 1960s renowned New Zealand coach Arthur Lydiard came to Finland to teach his methods. A few runners and coaches across Scandinavia took Lydiard’s weighted words and brought to bear a new chapter of hard training. Over the next decade the results were reaped the honest way, through miles and miles of determination, dedication, and a desire for Olympic divinity.

A Championship Athlete

In the 1970s a shy, introverted police officer stunned the world with four remarkable races. It was the first, and only, long-distance double-double at the Olympics.

If ever a runner was to be held up as a championship athlete, Lasse Arrturi Viren would undoubtedly get the title. In six Olympic starts, Viren garnered four gold medals and two fifth places. Indeed Viren is known for little else outside his glorious Olympic years, due in part to leg injuries that plagued him over the intermittent 1974–75 seasons.

"People always wonder about why I peaked for the Olympics. They are the main competition. Then, running was not a profession—you had a job. I was with the police. So naturally, after the Olympics I would rest in the training. My goal, like everyone’s, was the Olympics," said Viren.

Born in the north of Finland in a village of 2,000 inhabitants called Myrskyla, Viren led an active life, running to school and back, and participating in many athletic activities. At 17, Viren’s talent began to show, as he finished second in the junior national cross country championships.